How does it feel?

I believe this bears writing about because I have learned a lot during the course of the day. I was wrongfully accused today. The steps below are how I should have handled it......

Step1

Remain calm and do not get irate or upset with the individual who is making false accusations. If it is a loved one that you are dealing with, try to determine what is making them think that you have done what you are being accused of. It may stem from their lack of trust or your recent actions that were perceived in the wrong way. If someone is accusing you of doing something illegal, remain silent, document what is being told to you, and seek legal counsel immediately.

Step2

Provide your loved one with factual information or proof that their accusations are wrong. Determine if their accusations are based on their own irrational thinking. If you are being accused of something illegal you should also provide your attorney with as much information as possible regarding the circumstances of the situation, and your innocence and whereabouts on the day the incident or situation took place.

Step3

Give your accuser time and space to cool off if he is over reacting, using irrational thinking, and refuses to listen to you. Ask yourself if this is the first time this person has acted out like this and falsely accused you, or if their actions are consistent behavioral patterns in your relationship that need to be addressed with a professional neutral party.

Step4

Identify and use credible witnesses who can speak on your behalf regarding the situation. When dealing with a false criminal accusation, you will also want persons that know you to write positive letters on your behalf regarding your character and the type of person you are. These letters can be from the people you work with, neighbors, family, friends and church members.

Step5

Seek out a support system or talk with a private counselor who can help you deal with your own emotions and anger about being falsely accused. Talk with people who have been in the same circumstances who can provide insight on how to handle the situation as well as a source of comfort in knowing that you are not alone.

I'm sorry to say, I did NOT handle it this way. Despite my commitment to creating peace, I became angry. I confronted my accuser with anger and angry words. What I should have done was to ignore it and rise above it. I'm sad about the way I reacted to something that I knew to be false. After thinking a lot and talking to a lot of good friends, I feel better and hope I can learn from this experience and react in a healthier way next time. I say next time because I'm absolutely sure this will happen again in my life.

To all of you who listened and talked me through this today, thank you and I love you!